There are some names that every self-respecting folk fan should know; in my humblest of opinions, Diane Cluck is one of them. With her distinctive, sparse guitar picking tempered by a strong, almost world-wearied voice and disconcertingly perceptive lyrics, Diane’s…
FFS’s New Band Review Panel: Aspen Sails
Mary Machin: The music of Aspen Sails is nostalgic, infectious and personal all in one breath. Much of the material is accessible and could be any folk fan’s cup of tea. Going back to the personal element of Aspen Sails’ music,…
Pearly Gate Music debut album streaming now
Pearly Gate Music are streaming their debut album online this week ahead of its release on Monday. The Seattle-based band, headed by Zach Tillman – brother of Fleet Foxes drummer and singer/songwriter J. Tillman – have signed to Bella Union…
Broadcast 2000 to play Wilton’s Music Hall, records 6music session
Broadcast 2000 have announced plans for a very special gig at Wilton’s Music Hall in East London. The venue, which is over 150 years old and described by its operators as “old and crumbling”, is set to provide a unique…
Album: Harper Simon – Harper Simon
Harper Simon’s first album, Harper Simon is so good on paper that it would have to work pretty hard to be bad. Ten tunes squeezed into half an hour of music – always a good omen, some of Nashville’s canniest…
Folked Up: Stephen Thomas on Joni Mitchell’s ‘jibe’ against Bob Dylan
Yes, everything about Bob Dylan is a deception. But, really, are we surprised by this? We shouldn’t be. He has, in his time, been a troubadour, a rock star, a poet and a college drop-out. Dylan is notorious for his early-year interviews, during which he would often give conflicting back stories about his past, and where he came from. Since his origins as an artist and a musician Dylan has never been entirely honest with us.